A charitable duo who give up hours of their time for others have earned the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Greta Arlinskaite and Akbar Khan, who volunteer for the Bradford PHAB Club, jumped into action when the first lockdown was announced.

Thousands of food parcels reach families in need every year thanks to their dedication.

The pair offer their own time to making and delivering food parcels to 40 families a week.

Meanwhile Greta and Akbar lead weekly activities including swimming, sports camps, summer residentials and day trips, online sessions to tackle isolation, and more.

“I got very excited because personally I never got nominated for something like this,” Greta said.

“It’s nice to know that we’re doing something good.

“I would say it’s like an example for the future kids that if you receive something good eventually you may repay it to someone else. It’s just a chain.”

Akbar, chairman of the Bradford PHAB Club, said: “The most important thing from it for us, whilst it is lovely to be recognised, is the fact of why we’ve done it and the difference it’s made to the families that we’ve supported during these difficult times.”

Describing how it felt to win, Akbar said: “Complete shock, totally surprised to win against strong and worthy individuals who are also winners in our eyes.

“This one’s for PHAB family without whom we wouldn’t succeed.”

In a message to anyone interested in joining Bradford’s volunteering community, Akbar said: “Volunteering will give you the most amazing feeling knowing you have made a difference to so many lives.

“I love the interaction and meeting new people from all walks of life.

“To make just one person happy gives you the fulfilment of knowing you have made a difference.

“It’s a truly amazing feeling inside that words cannot begin to describe.”

Akbar has been at the helm of Bradford PHAB Club for over 40 years.

PHAB Club runs every Wednesday evening from 7.15pm at Mappa Building Community Centre, West Bowling.

Although the club is primarily for children with disabilities, all children are encouraged to partake in the varied activities.

The club promotes self-confidence and promotes growth in all the children involved.

The participants are transported to and from the club each week in Bradford PHAB Club’s van.

It offers children and young people a break from everyday life with a chance to mix with others and make new friends.